Countdown to Real Football: 14 Days - The Preseason

In just 14 days, there will be 'real' i.e. American Football to watch on TV, starting with the "Hall of Fame Game" which serves as the first game of the first week of the NFL Preseason.

The competing teams in the Hall of Fame Game traditionally wear throwback-style uniforms and the game takes on a kind of 'opening ceremony' feel, with the commentators talking more about the coming season than the game itself. As with all preseason games, the Hall of Fame Game is strictly an exhibition match - once the regular season begins all preseason records will be wiped clean and every team will start from 0-0.

This year's Hall of Fame Game, featuring the Arizona Cardinals and the New Orleans Saints, will kick off at 8PM EST on Sunday, August 5th.

(And speaking of opening ceremonies, the London 2012 Olympics opening ceremony is on the 27th, isn't it?)